Does Ashley Deserve Credit?

10 April 2011 10:41

Alan Pardew wants Mike Ashley to take the credit for saving the club from oblivion . but he would wouldn't he. Ashley gave him the job! The figures were produced last week and, let's not forget, the club is no longer a PLC so they didn't need to go public. So it was all a publicity stunt from the owner to pat himself on the back. As for Pardew . what more do you expect from him other than praise the bloke who gave him a job. Chris Hughton didn't have a bad word to say about Ashley . until he was sacked! And even then, there was allegedly a clause in the pay-off that Hughton keep his feeling to himself. Alan Pardew: “You have to say, and the figures last week back this up, that Mike Ashley put his neck out two years ago (after relegation) in the Championship year to keep the big players.“That has proved to be a really sound decision because most clubs, quite rightly, run for the hills a little bit.“We did at Charlton. We had no backer like Mike, no chance. The damage is irreparable and you can see yourself go through the division like Charlton, Sheffield Wednesday and a number of clubs have.“That was a bold decision by Mike and Derek on this occasion that perhaps went a little bit unrecognised.“On reflection, I think maybe in two or three years time, if things have gone well for us, suddenly it might be seen as a very positive thing that Mike did. I believe it was.“I was very, very worried with the sale of Andy Carroll.“It was a massively important decision to make – a very, very tough decision.“It’ll only be right if we stay in the division and we get the money to invest in the club – which Mike has assured me we will.“Then it is a good decision. But that’s not done yet.” "Magpies In Europe" is available NOW! It features match reports and individual features from Toon fans on the 60 'away' trips Newcastle have made in Europe. Sports Journalist Richie Everson: "At last a book that the fabulous Newcastle United fans can relate to. It's informative, all the facts and figures are there, plus the 120 match reports from all the fixtures . but it is the articles by the supporters that amazed me. "I went to many of those games, and this is the only book I can honestly say 'hits the nail on the head'! "Yes we know the results and the scorers, but some of the facts in this book had me so wrapped up in it I couldn't put it down. "Was Benny Arentoft cup-tied when he played in the final? Big Wyn and his battle with John McGrath; McFaul scoring a penalty when the crowd had gone home; the trouble in Palermo; it is all amazing stuff. "I would honestly give this book 10 out of 10." MAGPIES IN EUROPE From Antwerp to Zurich Price: £9.99 (including post) The book is available NOW! Please include your address in a letter and send a cheque (or postal order) for £9.99 payable to Mr K Fletcher, to: 'MAGPIES IN EUROPE', K Fletcher, 5 Dunelm, Sacriston, Co Durham DH7 6NU. Or contact: Kevnumad@fsmail.net